One fan suffered a stab wound and another took damage to the head. A third individual was heavily bruised after being set upon in a Kiev coffee shop.

The Mail article alleges that the 30-strong group of men were Ukrainian “thugs” who ambushed their prey for about two minutes before fleeing for cover.

A video shows one victim left on the street as medical assistance arrives to take all three men to a nearby hospital.

A foreign office spokesman, per the Daily Mail, commented: “We are aware of incidents in Kiev involving British nationals. We are providing consular assistance.”

England are in Kiev for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Ukraine, which Frank Lampard has already declared they must not lose, according to the Daily Star.

Roy Hodgson’s side are currently top of Group H—one point ahead of Ukraine and level with Montenegro, who have played an extra game.

Goals from Steven Gerrard, Danny Welbeck and Rickie Lambert wrapped up an easy win over Moldova on Friday, but the meeting with Ukraine—beaten only once so far in the campaign—represents a far sterner challenge.

Given the important nature of the fixture, England are expected to take a strong following to Kiev, so hopefully no more assaults of this nature take place.

The FA has yet to offer any official word on the incident, which threatens to cloud the buildup to Tuesday’s encounter.